The Lokoja Local Government Council has ordered the immediate and temporary closure of all worship centres outside the state capital, citing heightened security risks in outlying areas.
In a statement on Thursday, the Chairman of the Council, Hon. Abdullahi Adamu, said the directive follows “credible intelligence” indicating potential threats to public safety at places of worship located beyond the Lokoja metropolis.
“The temporary closure of all worship centres of all faiths outside the metropolis is effective immediately,” Adamu said. “This precautionary measure aims to protect congregants, especially in suburban isolated areas and mountainous locations.” He urged residents to cooperate and remain vigilant until further notice.
The announcement comes against a backdrop of escalating insecurity in parts of Kogi State, where attacks by armed groups and kidnappers have been reported in recent weeks and months. In December 2025, armed assailants targeted the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Aiyetoro-Kiri, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, abducting at least 13 worshippers during a Sunday service, according to official and independent reports.
Other incidents across Kogi have fuelled public anxiety, with bandit attacks resulting in killings, abductions and assaults in communities such as Ayetoro-Kiri and other rural districts. The state government has been responding with intensified security operations, aiming to dismantle criminal networks and secure the release of captives.
Security challenges in the region have also prompted broader state directives, including previous limits on social and religious gatherings after late afternoon hours to reduce exposure to threats.
Local authorities emphasise that the worship centre closures are temporary and precautionary. The Local Government Chairman reaffirmed the council’s commitment to the safety and security of citizens and urged the public to report suspicious activity to relevant security agencies.
